Detectives unsure what led to Maple Hill shooting

MAPLE HILL, NC (WWAY) — Investigators are searching for two people wanted for a shooting last night in Pender County. They’re also trying to figure out why the victim from Onslow County was there to begin with.

Pender County Sheriff’s detectives say two people tried to rob Ryan Mullins of Swansboro when they jumped in his car Thursday evening. They say one of the suspects shot Mullins and then ran.

Mullins was airlifted to New Hanover Regional Medical Center. A spokesperson for the hospital says Mullins was released from their care Thursday night. They were not able to comment on his injuries.

An investigator says the incident may be drug related. At this point, he says there was no legitimate reason for Mullins to be in Maple Hill at the time that he was shot.

The Sheriff’s Office has names of people that may have been involved, but deputies do not feel comfortable naming them as suspects yet.

We spoke to neighbors in Maple Hill Friday. No one wanted to talk on camera, but they said they were worried about the situation in the area.

The Pender County Sheriff’s Office says at this point the drug connection is only speculation, and they have no evidence yet to prove the theory.